What Happened to Eight Baloch Civilians Taken by Pakistani Forces?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Eight Baloch civilians forcibly taken by military forces.
- Rise in enforced disappearances reported in Balochistan.
- Human rights organizations demand accountability.
- International intervention is necessary to protect civilians.
- Immediate medical assistance needed for the injured.
Quetta, Dec 13 (NationPress) In a disturbing development, at least eight Baloch civilians have been forcibly taken by Pakistani forces, amidst an alarming rise in enforced disappearances across Balochistan, as reported by a prominent human rights organization on Saturday.
According to local sources cited by Paank, the Human Rights Department of the Baloch National Movement, several civilians—mainly young men—were apprehended during a raid conducted by the Pakistani military in the Khuzdar district on December 10, and they have not been seen since.
The individuals have been named as Arif Humble, Zameer Ahmed, Zahid Ahmed, Bashir Ahmed, Zahoor Ahmed, Abdul Malik, Shah Nawaz, and Irfan Hussain.
Expressing grave concern over the latest military operations in the Grisha area of Khuzdar, the rights organization extended its solidarity to the families of the victims and committed to documenting and raising awareness regarding the ongoing human rights violations in Balochistan.
In addition, another rights group, Baloch Voice for Justice (BVJ), highlighted the atrocities in Balochistan, disclosing that Pakistani forces had launched multiple mortar attacks targeting civilians in the Awaran district, injuring at least seven individuals, including children.
According to eyewitness accounts, the shells fell in the main market of Awaran, where families were present, causing widespread panic among residents engaged in their daily routines.
Condemning this assault, the BVJ emphasized that the bombardment signifies a persistent pattern of violence directed at unarmed civilians in Balochistan.
"Women and children are disproportionately affected by these operations. Communities in Awaran have endured repeated raids, checkpoints, and enforced disappearances. The deployment of heavy weaponry in a crowded market illustrates a blatant disregard for civilian safety and fundamental humanitarian principles," the BVJ asserted.
The organization urged immediate action from international human rights entities, asserting that independent and transparent investigations are necessary to hold accountable those responsible for the shelling.
"Prompt medical aid is essential for all injured individuals. Civilian areas must be safeguarded under all conditions. It is crucial for international actors to oversee the situation in Awaran and pressure the state to cease violent actions against the Baloch populace," the BVJ concluded.